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RISE 2025

RISE @ ESC Congress 2025

Together With World Congress of Cardiology

28 August – Madrid

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The RISE Conference is a full-day event dedicated to connecting women in cardiology with the organizations that support them for an inspiring day of professional development. Designed to empower women across medical specialties, RISE provides a unique opportunity to develop essential non-clinical skills that drive career advancement.

Women As One is excited to continue our partnership with the European Society of Cardiology for RISE @ ESC Congress 2025 and begin a new partnership with the World Congress of Cardiology. This year’s program will once again spotlight the critical theme of leadership, equipping participants with insights into the challenges and opportunities specific to their global regions. Attendees will explore innovative strategies for success, gain invaluable mentorship opportunities, and strengthen their professional networks through the ever-expanding Women As One community.

Group photo of attendees at RISE @ ESC Congress 2024
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Photo of attendees at RISE @ ESC Congress 2024

Registration is now open!

Please note that RISE registration is separate from ESC Congress registration and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Register by May 31 for the best savings.

Agenda

Program Directors Dr. Roxana Mehran, Dr. Maria Rubini, and Dr. Liesl Zühlke have designed a dynamic agenda that delivers a truly global perspective on leadership. The program will feature insightful discussions led by esteemed leaders in cardiology and business, alongside interactive coaching sessions and valuable opportunities for mentorship and networking.

With diverse perspectives from around the world, RISE will equip women in cardiology with the essential skills needed to forge their own leadership paths. Attendees will leave inspired, empowered, and ready to elevate their careers to the next level. Here’s a preview of some of the key sessions designed to inspire, empower, and connect:

  • House of Cardiology Roundtable – A dynamic discussion on gender equity initiatives and commitments from leading cardiovascular professional societies.
  • Heart Talk with the Global Community – A global panel highlighting regional opportunities for support and collaboration.
  • Situational Strategies for Success – An interactive session led by a renowned Executive Coach, offering practical strategies to navigate everyday challenges.
  • Speed Mentoring Sessions – A unique opportunity for 1-on-1 mentorship with a diverse panel of leaders in the field.

A networking reception for all RISE faculty and attendees will take place immediately following the conference.

Group photo of attendees at RISE @ ESC Congress 2024

Faculty

Meet the distinguished faculty of RISE @ ESC Congress 2025, an inspiring group of global leaders in cardiology who bring a wealth of expertise, experience, and diverse perspectives to the program. More faculty members will be added soon, so check back for the latest updates.

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Dr. Carla Agatiello
Argentina

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Dr. Nouf Alanazi
Saudi Arabia

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Dr. Sonya Burgess
Australia

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Dr. Barbara Casadei
United Kingdom

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Dr. Alessia Gimelli
Italy

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Dr. Joseph Hill
USA

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Dr. Chris Kramer
USA

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Dr. Vijay Kunadian
United Kingdom

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Dr. Jane Leopold
USA

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Dr. Roxana Mehran
USA

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Dr. Jennifer Mieres
USA

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Dr. Sonia Muliyil
United Kingdom

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Dr. Athena Poppas
USA

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Dr. Stacey Rosen
USA

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Dr. Maria Rubini
Spain

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Dr. Clara Saldariagga
Colombia

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Dr. Antonia Sambola
Italy

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Dr. Faiez Zannad
France

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Dr. Liesl Zühlke
South Africa

Related FAQs

What is RISE?

Is RISE only for women?

What is the format of the RISE conference?

A few words from our community

The RISE meeting at ESC Congress was amazing. It focused on professional development for women in cardiology in a seminar-type format with hands-on role-playing sessions. Such an inspiring and practical experience – thank you very much to the organisers!

Professor Martine Gilard, MD, PhD, FESC
Emeritus Professor of Cardiology, Brest University, France
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The second edition of the RISE Conference was phenomenal! I left the conference with a full heart, confidence and many tools to navigate the cardio world as a woman!

Alexandra Bastiany, MD FRCPC DRCPSC
Interventional Cardiologist, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, Canada
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I could not imagine a better start to this year’s ESC Congress in London than with RISE @ ESC Congress 2024. Thank you Women As One and the European Society of Cardiology for this absolutely amazing day. This kind of perfectly framed and sincere female empowerment makes me see a bright future a lot clearer. I can’t wait for the next RISE event to come.

Dr. Julia Lueg
Cardiology resident, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Berlin, Germany
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Incredible day talking mentorship, negotiation & conflict resolution, & changing institutional culture so that women in cardiology can rise! Met some truly inspiring women from across the globe.

Elizabeth Epstein, MD
Chief Cardiology Fellow, Scripps Integrative Cardiology, USA
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